The recent statistics and data released by Haryana highlight an alarming fact, 63,073 drunk driving challans have been issued throughout Haryana and almost 25,000 of that figure has been registered in Gurugram. Such a frightening number makes one think seriously about the current fight against the infractions of road safety and the necessity to employ even more force and raise awareness.
The work of Haryana Police such as regular special drives in different districts is impressive, but the number of challenges itself indicates a systematic problem. Drunk driving is a constant menace to the safety of people and even the drivers indulge in it as well as innocent pedestrians and passengers suffer. The fact that thousands of challans are being issued by the state every day makes it clearer that only enforcement will not help to curtail this dangerous behaviour.
Gurugram being the business and financial capital of Haryana has the highest rates of drunk driving cases. This, perhaps, is not surprising considering that the city has a vibrant night life and is a busy area with a good number of professionals, most of whom may have a high likelihood of involving itself in alcohol consumption after working. Nevertheless, the reality that Faridabad, Karnal, Panchkula and Jind have also recorded large populations of challans shows that the issue of drunk driving has a wide spread surface and does not just occur in urban centres.
The magnitude of the problem demands a complex solution. To begin with, the law enforcement is still required to perform the role of a deterrent, which is to be accompanied by increased investment in the governmental education programs. Sensitization on the effects of drunk driving such as loss of life, huge fines and long legal term implications must be reenacted on a regular basis. Schools, colleges and work places can contribute positively towards dissemination of such a message and responsible behaviour can be inculcated at a tender age.
Also, Haryana needs to explore other options, including encouraging people to use ride-sharing services or driver programs and particularly in the neighborhoods that have a high propensity of risk like Gurugram. Rewarding persons who consume such services might go a long way in the reduction of drunk driving especially on weekends and during festive seasons where people consume alcohol to the highest point.
The Haryana government and the police have made the right step but this problem needs continuous, concerted efforts of every stakeholder, such as the citizens, local business, and policymakers. Safety on the roads is the joint responsibility and only joint efforts will see Haryana roads become safe to all. The tightening of the belt, the creation of the culture of responsible drinking, and the pre-emptive approach, the state will be able to start tackling the issue more efficiently and save the lives by eliminating the threat of drunk driving.
